State Awards Grants for Nursing & Teacher Prep

(Bradenton, Fla., Aug. 23, 2006) -- The Florida
Department of Education's Succeed Florida grant program awarded
Manatee Community College (MCC) $753,773 to continue and expand
nursing and teaching certification preparation programs that
address critical shortages of qualified nurses in area
health-care institutions and teachers in area schools.

A portion of the grant funds, $195,390, helps fund a new
fast-track program at MCC Venice for 12 licensed practical
nurses who want to become registered nurses. They can complete
the program in three instead of the usual four 16-week
terms.
Area hospitals will review and support the program and expand
clinical rotation. The Suncoast Workforce Board will pay
related expenses for qualified students.

Additional nursing grant funds are for continuation of two
other nursing expansion projects. Last year's grant funds were
used to add 36 new students at MCC Venice and develop a
curriculum for an evening/weekend program at MCC Bradenton and
MCC Venice. This year's funding will add another 36 first-year
students at MCC Venice and 24 students in the evening/weekend
program.

MCC received an $85,051 grant to continue its teaching
certification preparation program for noneducation majors with
at least a bachelor's degree, and $199,972 to expand it to MCC
Venice. The purchase of two new videoconferencing systems will
allow simultaneous classes for students at MCC Bradenton, MCC
Venice and the Center for Innovation and Technology at Lakewood
Ranch. MCC was one of the first community colleges to implement
a program, known as an Alternative Certification Program, after
it was authorized by the Florida Legislature. An initial goal
of enrolling 50 students the first year was exceeded by more
than 25 percent. The first cohort of 23 students graduated in
May.